Heat transfer in sunspot penumbrae. Origin of dark-cored penumbral filaments

Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

Minor changes to match version published in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Scientific paper

10.1051/0004-6361:200809776

Context: Observations at 0.1" have revealed the existence of dark cores in the bright filaments of sunspot penumbrae. Expectations are high that such dark-cored filaments are the basic building blocks of the penumbra, but their nature remains unknown. Aims: We investigate the origin of dark cores in penumbral filaments and the surplus brightness of the penumbra. To that end we use an uncombed penumbral model. Methods: The 2D stationary heat transfer equation is solved in a stratified atmosphere consisting of nearly horizontal magnetic flux tubes embedded in a stronger and more vertical field. The tubes carry an Evershed flow of hot plasma. Results: This model produces bright filaments with dark cores as a consequence of the higher density of the plasma inside the tubes, which shifts the surface of optical depth unity toward higher (cooler) layers. Our calculations suggest that the surplus brightness of the penumbra is a natural consequence of the Evershed flow, and that magnetic flux tubes about 250 km in diameter can explain the morphology of sunspot penumbrae.

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

Heat transfer in sunspot penumbrae. Origin of dark-cored penumbral filaments does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Heat transfer in sunspot penumbrae. Origin of dark-cored penumbral filaments, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Heat transfer in sunspot penumbrae. Origin of dark-cored penumbral filaments will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-154725

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.